£49,000 FUNDS CHURCH HALL REVAMP

A run-down church hall will be transformed into a vibrant community centre thanks to a grant of £49,000.

Work began this week on the project at Crowhurst Hall on Knoyle Road in Preston, Brighton.

The scheme is being led by the Parochial Church Council of St John the Evangelist Brighton (St John's PCC).

It will create access for people with disabilities and install new windows, doors, toilets and a kitchen. The finished centre will then be redecorated to make it more welcoming for residents.

Funding for the project has come from The Veolia Environmental Trust, which awarded £49,000 through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Other funding came from The Allchurches Trust, which awarded £5,000, and groups including St John's Church.

Project co-ordinator Charles Haywood said: "As the hall is located at the centre of the community, it is in an ideal position to provide a base for services for groups including single elderly people, families with young children, the under-18s and people with mental health issues.

"It has taken a lot of work to get to this point but we are really excited work is starting. We cannot wait to see the finished building."

Paul Taylor, executive director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, said: "It is one of our priorities to help boost the potential of halls like this, so that they can remain a focus for activities and events for the whole community.